Dubai’s real estate sector is one of the most lucrative and competitive in the region, offering immense potential for driven individuals. There are now over 20,000 registered agents in Dubai1 as June 2024, adding to a highly saturated and competitive market. With a population of 4m which are increasing at 1,000 people coming into the city per day2, that equates to one agent for every 200 residents which is a very high brokerage density by global standards so you have to bring you A game.
To start, secure an employment visa by joining a reputable real estate brokerage. A strong agency provides the essential foundation—mentorship, legal guidance, and in-house training to launch your career effectively. Many agencies don’t have these basic foundations and expect you to hit the ground running.
How Real Estate Agencies Work
It’s important to note most agencies do not offer a basic salary to agents. They will provide an employment visa, basic health insurance and in some cases a small travel or mobile phone allowance. The only way to make money is through commission; the split: 50/50 (50% to you and 50% to your agency). In some cases, this model differs, but this is the predominant business model most agencies follow.
Once onboard, understand the sales process, including contracts such as Form A, B and F for sales, tenancy agreements for rentals, and the industry-standard 2% sales and 5% rental commissions. Knowing how to source listings, market them legally and professionally, and close deals is crucial.
To operate legally, you have to pass the RERA exam. Enroll with the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI), complete the required training, and pass a computer-based multiple-choice test of 50-70 questions with a score of 85% or higher. Once you pass, you will need a police clearance certificate (can be applied online) and your passport / Emirates ID copies to apply for your broker card. Once certified, apply for your official real estate broker license through the RERA portal (your agency will do this).
Sharpen your edge by becoming an area expert—understand the prevailing price per sq ft, service charges, rental yields and the developer’s reputation. Work ethically to build your property inventory and earn client trust. Collaborate with property owners, rely on agency leads, and leverage referrals to grow listings.
How To Standout In A Crowded Market
Your digital presence is vital. Post real estate video content, tips, and listings regularly. Always display your Trakheesi permit number—it’s a legal must. Using Viewit will give you an edge with this, you can post video tours of your properties and yourself, showcasing your unique insights into the market. You can conduct your ‘first viewing’ using Viewit by showcasing a video tour of your property to potential clients.
When you go to show listings, make sure you are well dressed, smell and look good, arrive to the viewing beforehand and make sure the property is open (if vacant) or accessible (if rented) and know everything about the listing (comparative prices, transaction history, rental yields, service fees, how old the community is, how far points of interest are, who the contractor was and so on).
Stay compliant with RERA regulations, build strong relationships with other agents, and ethically share listings and clients. This collaboration increases your chances of closing deals. With consistency, transparency, and market knowledge, you can one day launch your own brokerage—a goal achievable by those committed to Dubai’s fast-paced, data-driven real estate market.